Alviso Environmental Education Center, Don Edwards SF Bay Wildlife Refuge

About this adventure

At the southern tip of San Francisco Bay in Alviso, the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge's Environmental Education Center is San José's doorway to the bay's salt marshes and ponds. Several trails start here and offer some of the best birding in the South Bay, especially during the fall and spring migrations. Close to the building, a butterfly garden and a self-guided nature play area give younger children something hands-on before or after a short walk. Bring binoculars, layers and water; the levee trails are flat but exposed. Dogs are not allowed on Alviso trails (they are permitted only on a few trails near the refuge's Fremont visitor center).